Popular Native Doctor “Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki” Jailed as Anambra Shrine is Demolished

The Anambra State Government has begun dismantling the traditional shrine of Chidozie Nwangwu, a well-known local native doctor, following a recent High Court ruling in Awka that found him guilty on several charges linked to ritual practices and activities considered harmful to public safety.

A High Court presided over by Justice Jude Obiora convicted Nwangwu after he entered a guilty plea to offences that included involvement in money ritual practices and the preparation of charms for criminal use. Although originally facing multiple charges, parts of the case were struck out, and his sentence was reduced to 11 months in prison due to time already spent in custody.

Under the court’s orders, security operatives working with the state carried out the systematic demolition of his shrine in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area, destroying ritual pots, clothing, photos, and other objects associated with his practice.

In addition to the custodial sentence and shrine demolition, the court directed that Nwangwu must publicly renounce his ritual practices and refrain from administering charms in the future. He was also instructed to take on a role promoting positive messages to discourage youth involvement in similar activities once his term ends.